Title
AUTHORIZATION TO CHANGE THE GENERAL ADMISSION FEE FOR MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Body
To: The Honorable Board of Commissioners of the Chicago Park District
I. Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board of Commissioners adopt an order authorizing an increase in the general admission fees for the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). The proposed general admission fee increase is to take effect in June 2023 with approval of the Park District Board. The museum has not increased its fees since 2017.
II. Explanation
The proposed general admission fee increase will allow MCA to continue to maintain its current offerings while supporting meaningful change for our staff and visitors. In 2022, the MCA transitioned its part time staff into full time positions and created the role of Art Ambassador. These changes provided patrons with a better visitor experience while extending healthcare benefits to existing staff. The additional revenues from the change in admissions is expected to increase revenues by $325,000 annually for general operating expenses and allow the museum to offer a paid intern program.
The MCA is bringing back Family Days and the return of school programs such as field trips and SPACE (School Partnerships for Arts and Civic Engagement). Family Days are designed and led by Chicago Artists for all families and youth who take part in workshops, open studio sessions, gallery tours and performances. SPACE is a multi-year creative residency with Chicago Public Schools where a resident artist transforms spaces into sites of artistic and civic exchange. MCA also offers free guided field trips with free transportation to thousands of students in Chicago Public Schools.
In a typical year more than 47% of guests visit the museum for free. MCA provides 52 free days each year for Illinois residents and this includes their summer evening series "Tuesdays on the Terrace", which features free outdoor musical performances. Admission remains free ...
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